Cleaning and caring for your quartz countertop properly is key to keeping it looking beautiful for years to come. Quartz is an engineered stone made from ground quartz crystals held together with resin, making it non-porous and highly resistant to stains and damage. With proper maintenance, a quartz countertop can stay looking like new. Follow these tips to clean and care for your quartz surface.
Supplies Needed
- Mild dish soap or stone cleaner
- Soft cloth, sponge, or non-abrasive scrub pad
- Microfiber towel
- Clean water
Routine Cleaning
For routine cleaning, wipe down your quartz countertop daily using a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap. This helps remove light dirt, dust, and fingerprints. Rinse well and dry with a clean microfiber towel. Avoid abrasive cleaners and scrub pads during daily cleaning, as these can dull the surface over time.
Deep Cleaning
For a more thorough periodic cleaning, use a non-abrasive scrub pad and a specially formulated stone cleaner. Check the label to ensure the stone cleaner is safe for use on quartz. Apply the cleaner to the surface and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Use circular motions to clean the entire surface with the scrub pad. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean microfiber towel. Deep clean your quartz countertop in this manner every 1-2 weeks.
Tough Stains and Spills
While quartz resists stains much better than marble or granite, spills should still be cleaned up promptly to avoid permanent damage. Blot up spills immediately with a dry towel. For dried or stubborn stains, apply a non-abrasive stone cleaner and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing gently with a soft cloth or plastic scraper. Rinse and dry thoroughly. Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, as these can damage the resin sealant. For extremely stubborn stains, consult a professional stone restoration service.
Avoiding Damage
To keep your quartz pristine, always use cutting boards rather than cutting directly on the surface. While quartz is very durable, knives can still chip and scratch it over time. Wipe up spills promptly and avoid exposing the countertop to stain-causing substances like wine, oil, and acidic fruits and vegetables. Avoid putting hot pots and pans directly on the quartz, as extreme heat can damage the surface.
Sealant Maintenance
Quartz countertops are pre-sealed by the manufacturer, but may require occasional re-sealing over time. Signs that the sealant is wearing include water pooling rather than beading up and sliding off. To re-seal, apply a specialty quartz sealer according to the product instructions. Allow new sealer applications to fully cure before using the countertop again.
When in Doubt, Call a Professional
If your quartz countertop becomes damaged or stained despite your best cleaning efforts, don’t despair. Many stains can be removed and surfaces restored by a professional stone restoration company. Their powerful cleaning solutions and equipment can give new life to a damaged quartz surface.
Cleaning and caring for quartz properly makes a big difference in maintaining its beauty. With routine maintenance and prompt attention when spills occur, you can enjoy stunning, pristine quartz countertops for years to come. Follow these quartz care tips and your countertop will shine like new.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Quartz Countertops
How often should I clean my quartz countertop?
It’s recommended to clean quartz countertops daily using a mild soap and water solution to remove light dirt and dust. Deep clean your quartz 1-2 times per week using a stone cleaner and non-abrasive scrub pad.
What should I avoid using to clean quartz?
Avoid abrasive cleaners, bleach, ammonia, acidic or alkaline cleaners, and anything containing lemon, vinegar or other acids. These substances can etch or discolor quartz.
Is quartz stain proof?
Quartz is highly stain resistant but not completely stain proof. Spills should be cleaned up promptly to avoid permanent staining. Certain substances like oil, grease and dye can cause stubborn stains if left too long.
Can you use rubbing alcohol to clean quartz?
No, avoid using rubbing alcohol on quartz countertops. The alcohol can strip the finish and damage the resin binders that hold quartz together. Use a specially formulated stone cleaner instead.
What happens if tomato sauce stains quartz?
Rinse tomato sauce stains immediately with water. If any stain remains, blot with a stone cleaner and let sit before scrubbing gently. Red-based sauces like tomato can cause stubborn stains if left on quartz.
How do you polish a quartz countertop?
Use a specially formulated quartz polishing cream and buff in a circular motion with a soft cloth. Avoid polishing too frequently, as over-polishing can thin out the surface. Hire a professional if your quartz has etching or deep scratches.
Conclusion
With proper routine care and cleaning, quartz makes an excellent kitchen countertop material that can stay beautiful for decades. Pay attention to preventive maintenance by always using cutting boards and promptly wiping up spills. Deep clean quartz weekly with specialized stone cleaners and mild scrub pads. This prevents buildup of grime and helps maintain the polished surface. Avoid abrasives or harsh chemicals that can damage quartz. Treat stains promptly to avoid permanent discoloration. With the right gentle care, quartz countertops will retain their sleek, elegant beauty for years of kitchen use.